Hometown Christmas coming to Cleveland Dec. 7

VANESA BRASHIER

Published 7:56 am, Saturday, November 23, 2013

Santa Claus is coming to Cleveland on Saturday, Dec. 7, for Hometown Christmas, and with him he is bringing dozens of vendors to make holiday shopping easier. Hometown Christmas is a free, family-friendly event hosted by the Unity Committee that includes a street market, tree lighting, lighted parade and music.

The day will begin at 10 a.m. with the outdoor street market. Dozens of vendors will line North College Street between Alma’s Florist and Gifts and First Bank and Trust. Some of the items that will be sold are perfect for Christmas gifts, such as candles, relishes, handmade household goods, candies, toys, tree ornaments, holiday night lights, clothing and jewelry.

There is still space available for vendors. For local vendors, there is no fee; for vendors outside the area, the fee is $50. Vendors must provide their own tables and canopies. If using a canopy, please bring weighted buckets to prevent the canopy from blowing over.

During the street market, Christmas music will play to make the shopping experience more enjoyable. Local musicians, singers and dancers will also perform periodically.

Santa Claus will also make his appearance from 1 to 4 p.m. and will be available for free photos. The photos are graciously being provided by Walgreen’s. During Santa’s appearance, drawings will also be held for free toys for children who enter.

Just before 6 p.m, the street market will close as spectators line Houston St. to enjoy a lighted downtown parade, which will begin promptly at 6 p.m.. The parade route will begin at Houston St. near the Texan Theater and will end at Stancil Park on Peach St. Parade participants should begin to line up for the parade at around 4 p.m. along Travis St. near Christian Life Center.

Anyone with questions about the parade or street market is asked to call Kelly McDonald at 281-592-2667.